Cape Town’s iconic First Thursdays event has something in store for everyone – whether it’s art- and design-related, food- and drink-focused, or music events to get down on the dance floor. These are some of the best events taking place on Thursday, 2 July 2026, to celebrate with friends, family, and strangers.
Late Night Thrift: Christmas in July
It’s Christmas in July in Obs on Thursday 2 July, and Lower Main Road will be celebrating with beautiful lights, Christmas songs and lots of good cheer. Shops on the Thrift Trail will be spilling out onto the pavement, and in addition to rails and rails of great secondhand and sustainable fashion, there’ll be buskers, a food truck, and a whole lot of Christmas joy.
This fourth instalment once again turns Lower Main Road into a walkable circuit, and the idea is to shop first — make your way through the stores while the rails are full and the night is young — then settle in somewhere for a drink or a bite once you’ve had your fill of the finds. Whether you leave with a new winter staple or simply a good evening, the circuit is there to move through at your own pace, one rack and one stop at a time.
When: Thursday, 2 July 2026
Where: Lower Main Road, Observatory, Cape Town
Get your winter wardrobe with Late Night Thrift
Thirsty Thursdays at Kaya Cafe: Until Further Notice
One of the biggest hotspots for young people in the city, Kaya Cafe is an intimate space with vibey music, trendy drinks, and filling snacks. On First Thursdays, the venue transforms into a vibrant hub for live performances, including acoustic sets, drag king shows, discussions, and captivating karaoke.
This month’s edition starts with live performances by some of the city’s up-and-coming cloud-trap & hip-hop artists, including Vapi, Khaurus, and Rhali. Thereafter, Kaya’s very own DJ, producer, and events manager, Kilo, is performing the headlining set, after which the night turns into a karaoke sing-along (from 9pm).
When: Thursday, 2 July 2026 | 7pm – late
Where: KAYA HQ, 35 Loop Street, Cape Town City Centre
ItsAHouse
One of the Mother City’s biggest House parties, ItsAHouse brings together beloved DJs and fans to form part of the genre’s underground culture. After a successful opening last month, the party is returning to Kloof cocktail bar Batanga, with a special guest performing that night alongside ItsAHouse regulars, and Jameson Irish Whiskey on hand for anyone needing a drink.
Cost: From R150 per person. Book now on Quicket.
When: Thursday, 2 July 2026 | 6pm – 12am
Where: 70a Kloof St, Gardens, Cape Town
Harringtons
This classic cocktail lounge, restaurant and boutique bar evokes an otherworldly sense of opulence, style and sophistication. With panoramic windows overlooking the bustling nightlife of the East City neighbourhood, the place features lush, inviting décor that takes guests back to a time when disco was alive and drinks were cheap.
THIS MONTH: Bomba CT
Bomba are once again curating this month’s night of throwback remixes and fresh productions. The programme features many up-and-coming DJs alongside local scene veterans, including Oli Lev B2B Benji, Michael Sutton, Meek, Jordan, and Trevor.
This month, Bomba is running a ticket giveaway where the winner gets 6 tickets to the event, a VIP table, small-plate meals, and 1x Altos Tequila and mixers during the event. Find out more on Instagram.
Cost: From R60 (Early Bird). Tickets available on TicketBee.
When: Thursday, 2 July 2026 | 8pm – 3am
Where: Harringtons Cocktail Lounge, 61b Harrington Street, Cape Town
Petrol Station Pies X Grand Funk
Grand Funk’s iconic music events return to celebrate the launch of their brand-new clothing store on Lower Main Road.
“Cape Town’s favourite noise punk band”, Petrol Station Pies (PSP) – long-time collaborators and friends of Grand Funk – just dropped the first music video for their latest single, Bela Lugosi, and are giving a special First Thursday screening in the heart of Obs.
Hosted by Live Sessions at the Grand Funk shop, the event is set to feature an intimate, loyal crowd, groovy clothing finds from Grand Funk, and a special DJ set by PSP members. Entrance to the event is completely free.
When: Thursday, 2 July 2026 | DJ set from 6pm | Music video screening at 7pm | DJ set until 9pm
Where: Grand Funk, 62b Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town
House of Machines
The Cape Town destination for bikers, coffee-lovers, and live music enthusiasts, the House of Machines is an always-busy social bar that appeals to a wide range of Capetonians with its varied events, chatty atmosphere, and unique aesthetic. Over the last few years, it has become one of the premier live music spots in the city, often platforming up-and-coming talent at affordable prices.
For First Thursday in July, the lineup includes many local favourites on the DJ circuit, including Disco Dez, That Asian Girl, The Kwagga, and No Joke Nejo.
When: Thursday, 2 July 2026 | 6pm – late
Where: 84 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town City Centre
Zeitz MOCAA
The largest contemporary museum of African art and one of Cape Town’s premier art destinations, Zeitz MOCAA, features both permanent and temporary, rotating exhibitions, all contributing to the preservation and promotion of African artists.
For First Thursday, the museum is hosting guided exhibition walkabouts, an architectural tour of the building, and a DJ set by local producer Blaqkongo. Best of all? Tickets are half-price, making it even easier to visit one of the city’s leading art museums, set to fresh music and with expert insights from industry professionals.
Cost: From R132.50 per person (6pm – 9pm) | Free admission for museum members & u-18s. Tickets and memberships for the Zeitz MOCAA can be purchased on Webtickets or at the door of the museum.
When: Thursday, 2 July 2026 | 6pm – late
Where: Zeitz MOCAA, S Arm Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
The Outlore Base
Hosting many talented artists in the fringe performance scene and pushing the boundaries of what is considered traditional theatre, The Outlore Base is an events space for all manner of live art productions – from absurdist stand-up shows to drag performances and cabaret.
This First Thursday, they are putting on a truly diverse variety show. The programme starts with a (limited) free rosé tasting, then moves on to games, interactive art activations, a treasure hunt, and ends the night with a noughties-inspired dance party. One of the most interesting events is their own ‘Hot Ones’ competition: seven randomly chosen contestants try ever-spicier hot sauces while answering saucy questions, with the last one standing winning a prize.
RSVP for free on Quicket.
When: Thursday, 2 July 2026 | 6pm – 10.30pm
Where: 80 Hout St, Cape Town City Centre
Surfa Rosa
An edgy dive bar with subliminal punk and surf influences, Surfa Rosa is a little bar with a big personality. The vibe is laid back. The music is loud. Situated at street level on Harrington Street, it opens onto an outdoor smoking patio.
THIS MONTH: Fuzz Nights x Surfa Rosa
For May’s First Thursday lineup, event organiser & DJ collective Fuzz Nights is in charge of the grooves at Surfa Rosa. The lineup is TBA.
When: First Thursdays | 8pm – 2am
Where: 61 Harrington St, Cape Town
First Thursday at Clay Café in the City
Clay Café in the City is a ceramic painting venue and tapas bar. Enjoy a creative space that strives to teach like-minded adults to be creative, learn new techniques, and just have some fun while exploring, enjoying tapas, and relaxing to relaxing music.
This month’s offering includes a Thirsty Thursday buy-one-get-one-free drinks special, alongside R60 tapas.
Cost: R45 (studio fee) | Book now on Dineplan.
When: First Thursdays (4pm – 10pm)
Where: 199 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre
Culture Wine Bar
Famous among enthusiasts for its curated selection of wines, ranging from sought-after imports to hidden African gems, Culture Wine Bar is a vibrant social space among the Bree Street favourites. It regularly hosts live music bands, livening up the atmosphere with some of the best up-and-coming local musicians.
Reservations can be made on the website.
When: First Thursdays | From 7pm
Where: 103 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
Clarke’s
A favourite among First Thursday gallery hoppers, this well-placed restaurant offers all-day breakfast, acclaimed burgers, and one of the most extensive cocktail lists anywhere in the CBD. With Clarke’s being on Bree Street near most of the big galleries and nightlife spots, it’s a great stop to sip, snack, and groove while keeping the night alive.
When: First Thursdays | 5pm – 11pm
Where: 133 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre
Chingadas
This vibrant Tex-Mex restaurant thrives on colourful decor, messy eating, and lots of cocktails. The space is made up of many interleading rooms and multiple fireplaces, ensuring the atmosphere is as warm as the food. It’s a relatively new addition to the trendy spots near Kloof Street, distinguishing itself with its family-friendly environment and proudly Mexican identity.
Chingadas is perhaps best known for its build-your-own margarita, with a handy guide that teaches guests how to make the perfect drink. Its food menu is extensive, with traditional favourites such as nachos and fajitas, as well as unique offerings like avocado fries and a churro cheesecake.
Book a table on Dineplan.
When: Tuesday – Sunday | 12pm – 11pm (Tue – Thu) | 12pm – 12am (Fri & Sat) | 12pm – 9pm (Sun)
Where: 50 Orange St, Gardens, Cape Town
Bascule Bar
Set on the Waterfront marina, this whiskey and cocktail bar is known for its wide selection of drinks, lush decor, intimate conversations, and a curated collection of African art. On First Thursdays, the space hosts live jazz to enhance the vibrant atmosphere, along with a special offer on Martell cognac.
When: First Thursdays | 6pm – 12am
Where: Cape Grace Hotel, W Quay Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town
Fable
Home to Cape Town’s most innovative and immersive cocktail menu, Fable is also known for its variety of live in-house entertainment, ranging from world-class musicians to professional fire eaters. With a lineup of local DJs and a live saxophone player this First Thursday, Fable is perfect for experienced cocktail enthusiasts wanting to try something new, and complete beginners wanting to see what the hype is about.
Bookings can be made on the website.
When: Tuesday – Sunday | 4.30pm – late (Fri – Sun) | 5pm – late (Tue – Thu)
Where: Corner Bree & Wale St, Cape Town City Centre
Vault on Bree
Vault on Bree is a new space at the corner of Bree and Castle Street, where Cape Town’s creative community can gather, share ideas, and grow together. Vault on Bree is a place for artists, designers, brands, and innovators to meet, collaborate, and explore new ways of expression. It’s been thoughtfully designed to encourage conversation, connection, and creativity, with the hope of nurturing a stronger sense of community in the city.
In partnership with Phil Kramer, the sound designer behind the system at One Park, the space includes a listening bar that puts music and atmosphere at its heart. Listening bars are intimate spaces dedicated to high-quality sound, inviting people to slow down, pay attention, and experience music more deeply and intentionally.
When: First Thursdays | 6pm till late
Where: c/o Bree and Castle Street, Cape Town City Centre
Everything About Vault on Bree
99 Loop Gallery
The gallery is dedicated to exhibiting contemporary and modern African art, representing a core group of emerging and established artists. These artists are either from the continent or have historic links to the greater African diaspora. Fine art on view includes work on paper, ceramics, photography, painting and sculpture.
Starting on First Thursday this month, the gallery is debuting two new exhibits.
Fluster – Zarah Cassim
This solo exhibition the boundary between constrained and overwhelmed, the unsettled state of being flustered. Done with layers of oil paint, the works create movement and turbulence to echo this sense of “fluster”.
Being Seen – Group Exhibition
Being Seen is a figurative group exhibition that explores the shifting conditions of visibility and presence. Drawing on ideas of identity, perception, and appearance, the exhibition considers how visibility is shaped, performed, and understood.
When: First Thursday | 5pm – 8pm
Where: 99 Loop Street, Cape Town
Ebony/Curated
Since its establishment in 2015, the gallery has continued to support creatives whose practices engage with intimate lived experiences within broader cultural and aesthetic contexts. Loop Editions is an add-on to the gallery, showcasing artists’ originals, editions, and collectables in a bright, sunny café space adjacent to the gallery.
ON SHOW: Modern Masters VIII
Each year, Ebony/Curated brings together a personal selection of artworks by some of South Africa’s most celebrated names alongside some forgotten voices from the past. This exhibition offers a compelling survey of artistic innovation and influences across the generations, showing that modern art in Southern Africa cannot be traced to a single centre or narrative. Rather, it emerges from multiple histories, voices and visual languages.
When: Until 25 July 2026 | First Thurs: 5pm – 9pm
Where: 67 Loop Street, Cape Town City Centre
Mojo Silly Thursdays
Mojo Market’s flagship weekly comedy night features new lineups each time, platforming fresh debutants alongside established, veteran acts.
This week, the lineup is hosted by Kurt Langeveld and includes Liam Whitcher, David Bates, and headliner Jaryd Pillay.
When: First Thursdays | From 7.30pm
Where: 30 Regent Rd, Sea Point, Cape Town
Signature Art Gallery: Art, Live Music and Wine Evening
Signature Art Gallery offers a new art experience for collectors, investors, and general art lovers. The gallery carries art by internationally acclaimed artists as well as reputable local and emerging artists whom we have identified as having great potential, thus presenting a wide range of pricing.
Signature Art Gallery invites guests to an evening of art, music, and community this First Thursdays. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine, connect with fellow art lovers, and listen to live music while viewing a diverse collection of top contemporary artworks.
When: First Thursdays | From 6pm
Where: 14 Long Street, cnr of Riebeek & Long Street, Cape Town
Vela Projects
Founded in 2022 with a pop-up exhibition, Vela Projects now presents a boutique selection of African artists and offers a programme that resonates with global culture and champions the development of artistic careers.
When: First Thursdays | 5pm – 8pm
Where: 66 Plein Street, Cape Town
Idiots Unplugged Karaoke at Village Idiot
Those with (and without) singing chops can have some fun on the mic with this karaoke experience. All singers get free shots, and the restaurant offers 50% off food, Happy Hour from 6pm to 8pm and a R500 Bar Tab for Songbird Of The Night.
When: First Thursdays | 6pm – 11pm
Where: The Village Idiot, 32 Loop Street, Cape Town
Museum of Gems and Jewellery: Hidden Treasures
The Museum of Gems and Jewellery tells the story of South Africa’s diamonds and precious metals, and how earthly treasures are transformed into precious heirlooms through creativity.
ON SHOW: Hidden Treasures
Discover a world of gemmological and jewellery wonder at the Museum of Gems & Jewellery, housed in the 18th-century Huguenot House. On First Thursdays, explore South Africa’s rich mineral, cultural, and artistic heritage through an intimate, beautifully curated journey spanning 3 billion years.
When: First Thursdays | 5pm – 8pm
Where: 66 Loop Street, Cape Town
Lemkus Gallery
A multi-generational company dating back to 1935, LEMKUS is a space for design and creativity. On the fourth floor is Lemkus Gallery, home of the Residency28 programme.
ON SHOW: Notes on Paper – Sihle Sogaula & Jared Leite
“Paper is one of the first surfaces we learn to trust. Long before it becomes the carrier of forms and ideas, it meets us as a place to put something down — a mark, a word, an impulse trying to steady itself. Its familiarity can trick us into thinking we understand it, when in fact its intimacy is what makes it difficult to see clearly.”
When: First Thursdays | 6pm – 8pm
Where: 28 St Georges’ Mall, Cape Town City Centre
Leo’s Wine Bar
A staple of the First Thursday night out, Leo’s Wine Bar is inside a bagel shop on Bree Street. The shop pours low-intervention wines from smaller producers, with a healthy selection of natural wines always available to enjoy.
When: Monday – Saturday | 5pm – 11pm
Where: Leo’s Wine Bar, 120 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre
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